3 Indians missing after attack on vessel off Oman, government condemns strike
The Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday strongly criticised an attack on a sea vessel named Settebello off the coast of Oman on June 10
The Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday strongly criticised an attack on a sea vessel named Settebello off the coast of Oman on June 10. Out of the 24 Indian crew members on board the vessel, 21 have been successfully rescued, while three remain missing. "We condemn the attack on the commercial vessel Settebello off the coast of Oman, earlier today. Of the 24 Indian crew onboard, 21 Indians have been rescued thus far, and 03 Indians are reportedly missing," the MEA said. The statement further mentioned that the Indian Embassy in Oman is closely monitoring the situation and is working in tandem with Oman's maritime authorities to conduct an emergency search and rescue (SAR) operation to locate the missing crew members.
Expressing deep concern over the volatile security situation in the Middle East, India connected the maritime strike directly to the broader geopolitical hostilities gripping the region. " The continuing incidents of attacks on shipping in the region are deeply worrisome and a direct result of the ongoing conflict in the region. We reiterate our call for immediate de-escalation of tensions, and the conclusion of ongoing negotiations for a diplomatic solution so that peace and stability can return to the region.," the MEA said. India further emphasised that global trade routes must be protected from geopolitical fallout.
The government demanded an immediate end to the targeting of civilian infrastructure and commercial shipping, urging the international community to ensure free, unimpeded navigation through vital waterways in strict accordance with international maritime law. US ALLEGEDLY LAUNCHED THE ATTACK, SAY UK MARITIME SECURITY GROUP Read Full Story Ambrey, a British maritime security group, said that the attack took place as the United States targeted the vessel with two missiles. "This was likely the result of US operations to blockade Iranian ports. In the past, crews have been warned to gather on the bow of a vessel before an attack on the stern," Ambrey said as reported by Reuters.
Meanwhile, The ship was a Palau-flagged chemical/oil products tanker which reported an engine room fire 20 nautical miles northeast of Oman's port of Sohar, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations agency said. Ends
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